Some health benefits of okra you must know

Okra, its name certainly means something to you and you have probably even seen it on the shelves of your grocery store without paying attention, but it was without knowing its many health benefits. From now on, believe me, you won’t look at it the same way! Indeed, because of its exceptional nutritional qualities, this fruit, native to Africa, which is eaten like a vegetable, is to be included in your diet as a matter of urgency.

Let’s discover now the many health benefits of okra (also called okra).

-It helps control diabetes: Its low glycemic index and high amount of soluble fiber, which limits carbohydrate absorption, make okra a food of choice for people with diabetes. Plus, research has shown that it works the same way as insulin by lowering blood sugar levels.
Tip: For better efficacy in controlling diabetes, it is recommended that you drink okra water rather than consuming it cooked. This water is obtained after leaving okra pods to soak in it for a few hours and should preferably be consumed in the morning on an empty stomach.

-It strengthens the immune system:

As we have just seen, free radicals can be involved in the development of certain diseases including asthma, but also in the weakening of the immune system. Thanks to its strong antioxidant power, okra helps limit the action of free radicals. It is advisable to consume raw or steamed okra to strengthen your immune system.

-It prevents kidney disease:

Researchers have found that okra has beneficial effects in treating diabetic nephropathy, which can ultimately lead to kidney failure. This is because people who consume okra are less likely to develop kidney disease than those who do not. Drink okra water often to keep kidneys healthy.

-It facilitates weight loss:

Rich in fiber and low in fat, okra is a very low-calorie fruit which is therefore a great ally in the context of a diet. It also contains vitamins and minerals essential for a healthy and balanced diet, especially important during a low-calorie diet. Researchers have also shown that the complex carbohydrates (polysaccharides) in okra have the effect of reducing the body weight and glucose levels of obese mice.

-It helps fight against high blood pressure:

Okra is rich in essential minerals, especially potassium, which plays an essential role in the body’s vital functions. Thus, in addition to contributing to the proper functioning of the heart, it also has a dilating effect on the blood vessels. A diet rich in potassium therefore helps prevent high blood pressure and maintains cardiovascular health. Cooking alters the vitamins and minerals in food. For an optimal assimilation of potassium, consume okra preferably fresh and raw.

-It relieves fever and respiratory ailments:

Among the many benefits of okra, there is also its soothing action in cases of fever and respiratory diseases. In the form of herbal tea, it helps relieve symptoms, such as muscle aches, headaches or breathing difficulties. To relieve fever, make herbal tea with toasted dry seeds or dilute powdered dry seeds in hot water. Prefer infusions of okra leaves for colds or bronchitis.

-It improves digestion and prevents constipation:

Okra is a fruit very rich in dietary fiber which acts in 2 ways on intestinal transit: insoluble fibers fix water and swell, thus giving volume to the stool; soluble fibers facilitate their journey through the colon by softening them. They are therefore a natural laxative and thus help improve intestinal well-being. The fiber intake should be both regular and moderate to avoid intestinal discomfort such as bloating or gas. It is therefore advisable to adapt your consumption of okra to your eating habits to ensure a balanced total fiber intake